Markerless AR places or relates digital content to the environment without requiring a predefined visual marker as its reference.
How can content stay in place?
Depending on the system, cameras and motion sensors estimate the device's movement, while plane detection, depth information or other signals help interpret the surroundings. The word markerless covers several approaches; it does not name one universal tracking engine.
An exhibition example
A visitor might place a virtual sculpture on the floor and walk around it. The environment provides the spatial context. With image tracking, by comparison, a specific prepared artwork provides the visual reference.
Markerless does not mean effortless
A blank wall, poor light, reflective surfaces or rapid movement can make spatial tracking difficult. The visitor may need to move the device while the system establishes its position. Device, browser and permission requirements still apply.
Choosing the right approach
For an animation that must line up with a particular painting, image tracking may be the more direct fit. For an object positioned freely in a room, world tracking may be appropriate. Decide from the intended encounter, then verify that the chosen viewer supports it on the target devices.